Bright, tangy, and full of vibrant flavors, tomatillo pasta is the perfect dish to elevate your weeknight dinner rotation. If you're a foodie who loves experimenting with bold ingredients or simply a home cook looking to impress your guests, this tomatillo pasta recipe is an absolute must-try.
This recipe combines the tartness of tomatillos with creamy, cheesy pasta goodness to create a dish that’s as satisfying as it is unique. Let's get cooking!
What You'll Love About This Tomatillo Pasta Recipe
Tomatillo pasta captures the essence of Mexican-inspired flavors while keeping the dish approachable for even the busiest of home cooks. Here's why you'll love it:
- Unique Flavor Profile: The zesty kick from tomatillos’ natural tanginess complements the creaminess of the pasta sauce effortlessly.
- Simple, Fresh Ingredients: This recipe highlights fresh tomatillos, garlic, and herbs, making it delicious and wholesome.
- Quick Weeknight Meal: With a prep and cook time of under 30 minutes, it’s perfect for busy evenings.
- Customizable: Easily adapt it to your liking by adding protein like grilled chicken, shrimp, or even roasted veggies.
Now, let's move on to the ingredients you'll need to whip up this sensational tomatillo pasta.
Ingredients You'll Need
Here’s a breakdown of all the ingredients needed to make this creamy tomatillo pasta:
For the Sauce:
- 8-10 fresh tomatillos, husked, washed, and halved
- 3 cloves garlic
- 1 small yellow onion, chopped
- 1 jalapeño or serrano pepper (optional, for a spicy kick)
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
For the Pasta:
- 12 oz. of your favorite pasta (spaghetti, fettuccine, or penne work well)
- 1/2 cup reserved pasta water
- Fresh cilantro and lime, for garnish
When it comes to cooking, fresh ingredients make all the difference. Look for firm, green tomatillos with tight husks to ensure you're getting the best possible flavor.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Roast the Tomatillos
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Place the halved tomatillos, chopped onion, garlic, and jalapeño on a baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil, sprinkle with salt and pepper, then roast for 15-20 minutes, or until the tomatillos are softened and lightly charred. Roasting enhances their natural sweetness and depth of flavor.
Step 2: Blend the Sauce
Once roasted, transfer the tomatillos, onion, garlic, and jalapeño to a blender or food processor. Blend until smooth and creamy. Set aside. This roasted tomatillo sauce is what makes this recipe irresistible!
Step 3: Cook the Pasta
While the tomatillos are roasting, boil a pot of salted water and cook your pasta until al dente, as per package instructions. Reserve about 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining.
Step 4: Combine Sauce and Cream
Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the tomatillo sauce from the blender and stir in the heavy cream. Allow it to simmer for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. Next, mix in the grated Parmesan cheese until the sauce becomes thick and luxurious.
Step 5: Toss the Pasta
Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the sauce. Toss until every strand is fully coated, adding a splash of the reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce if needed. Taste and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper, if desired.
Step 6: Plate and Garnish
Transfer the pasta to serving bowls. Garnish with freshly chopped cilantro, a light squeeze of lime juice, and extra grated Parmesan for that final touch. If you're feeling fancy, a few slices of fresh jalapeño or avocado make a stunning and tasty garnish.
Pro Tips to Perfect Your Tomatillo Pasta
- Balancing Flavors: To balance the tanginess of the tomatillos, don't skip the cream and Parmesan. They add just the right amount of richness to the sauce.
- Spice Level: Adjust the heat based on your preference. Leave out the jalapeño for a milder dish or use serrano peppers for extra heat.
- Make it Vegan: Swap heavy cream with coconut milk or cashew cream and use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan for a plant-based twist.
- Store Leftovers: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat on the stove with a splash of water or cream to revive the sauce.
Why Tomatillos Are a Hidden Gem
Tomatillos, often overshadowed by their cousin the tomato, are the star ingredient in this recipe. Known for their bright green hue and tart taste, tomatillos are perfect for sauces and salsas. They’re rich in vitamin C, low in calories, and provide a refreshing twist to pasta dishes like this one.
Make It Your Own
While this recipe is a winner just as it is, there’s plenty of room to get creative:
- Add protein options like shredded chicken, sautéed shrimp, or crispy bacon.
- Incorporate roasted vegetables such as zucchini or bell peppers for extra texture.
- Experiment with different herbs, like parsley or basil, to match your flavor preferences.
Bring the Bold Tomatillo Flavors to Your Kitchen
This creamy tomatillo pasta is perfect for anyone looking to shake up their pasta night with something new and exciting. Its unique flavor and simple preparation make it a dish you'll come back to time and time again. Whether you’re cooking to impress guests or just need a quick yet satisfying dinner, this recipe has got you covered.
What are you waiting for? Grab some tomatillos, fire up your oven, and get cooking! Don’t forget to share your creations with us on social media using #TomatilloPasta.
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